If you've been making things, already - you're way ahead of most. I recommend Jim Tolpin's "The new Traditional woodworker" as it employs power tools for the 'donkey work' of getting rough lumber ready. The appeal of hand tools (for me) was the lower buy in cost compared to most cabinet shops. The downside of living here in Miller's Falls country is how many tools "follow me home" from tag sales.
Thanks Jim, maybe I will seriously ask myself some questions before I pull the trigger on a tool purchase. Foe example, i have been wanting a drum sander i think it is something ill use but its $1400 for the one id like. As i read your message I immediately asked myself how much I'd actually use it. $1400 can buy a lot of tools. I use the heck out of my table saw , DeWalt planer, small bandsaw. One tool I got that I thought I'd use a lot but haven't yet is my RBI 26" scrollsaw. I got a real good deal on it. I do have a strong desire to use it. I just haven't. The things that people want me to build don't require it. Now I'm asking myself do I really need the Foredom tool for carving. I love the idea of having one. That's $350, if I get it will it sit unopened for a year. I'm really going to think and pray about my purchases on tools. Great advice thank you. Brian
On getting started - if there's a basics class nearby, take a weekend course. It will cover the pitfalls we ALL cross, starting out. Keep a list of the tools you actively use. Most tools purchased in the first year never come out of the wrapper. DAMHIKT Jim in Massachusetts
